The King-Designate of the Tooro Kingdom, Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, is undergoing a special traditional initiation and training ahead of his coronation on September 29.
The training, conducted by elders and traditional custodians of the Tooro Kingdom, is intended to prepare Nyabongo for the responsibilities of the throne by familiarising him with the kingdom’s customs, language, rituals and expected conduct as Omukama.
Fr Charles Oyo, the Head of Communications for the Coronation Organising Committee, said although Nyabongo has previously lived as a prince, his selection as king requires him to adopt a different way of life and understand the responsibilities that come with the throne.
Oyo said the training covers the culture of the palace, including the do’s and don’ts that apply specifically to the king, as well as how he is expected to conduct himself both within the palace and in public. The King-Designate is also being taught how to interact with his subjects, perform royal rituals and conduct himself during the coronation and other important kingdom ceremonies.
He added that Nyabongo is learning the specialised language used within the palace, which includes words and expressions that differ from those commonly used by the wider population.
Bernard Kato Rwakatale, the Assistant Musuuga, said Nyabongo is currently staying at a private location where he is undergoing the initiation under the guidance of elders led by the Musuuga, the head of the Babiito royal clan.
Rwakatale said other traditional custodians, including the chief priest, known as Omusuuna; the head of the traditional royal guards, Omweganywa; and the keeper of the royal drums, Omujaguzi, are each responsible for teaching the King-Designate different aspects of his new role.
He said the elders are taking Nyabongo through the customs and rituals of the palace, including what he is expected to do, how each ritual should be performed and the appropriate time for carrying it out.
Rwakatale said that about two days before his enthronement, Nyabongo will leave his current location and move to a palace in Rwengoma Village in Fort Portal City. From there, he will leave at midnight on September 28 and embark on a traditional journey to Karuzika Palace, where he will participate in a symbolic mock battle.
According to the coronation programme, the King-Designate will emerge victorious from the battle before proceeding to take his seat on the royal throne, marking the culmination of the traditional preparations for his enthronement-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
